5 TIPS TO GET OUT OF DEBT & INTO YOUR OWN HOME
- johnathanmcquoid
- Jan 17
- 3 min read
If you want to become a homeowner but feel buried by debt, don’t stress — you’re not alone, and there is a clear path forward.
You just need a plan… and the discipline to follow it.
Here are 5 practical steps that can help you reduce your debt and move closer to owning your first home 👇
1️⃣ Make a list of ALL your debts
Write everything down, including:
✔️ creditor name
✔️ balance
✔️ interest rate
✔️ minimum payment
Most credit card statements now show how long it will take to pay off your balance at minimum payments — use this to stay honest with yourself.
Seeing everything in one place is the first step toward taking control.
2️⃣ Lower your interest rates wherever possible
This part is easier than many people think.
Try these strategies:
✔️ Call your credit card companies
Ask for a lower interest rate. Mention competing offers. Many will approve a reduction and send it in writing.
✔️ Use balance transfer promotions wisely
Some cards offer 0% for 6–12 months. Pay aggressively during this period — don’t fall into the trap of overspending.
✔️ Consider a debt consolidation loan
If you have home equity, we can consolidate your debts at a much lower rate than credit cards.
✔️ Renegotiate car loan or service bills
Lenders sometimes lower rates for good payment history.
✔️ Renegotiate utilities and cellphone plans
Competition is high — companies often reduce rates when you mention switching.
The goal is simple:
Reduce interest → lower monthly costs → pay off debt faster.
3️⃣ Know your numbers
There are two key numbers to track:
✔️ Your total debt amount
How much do you need to eliminate to reach a clean slate?
✔️ Your credit score
What score do you need to qualify for a mortgage?
If you’re unsure about the required credit score or debt thresholds, message us — we can walk you through exactly what lenders look for.
Once you know your numbers, you can set a realistic timeline.
4️⃣ Build a realistic plan
Decide how you’ll tackle your debts:
✔️ Highest-interest first (saves the most money)
✔️ Smallest-balance first (creates faster momentum)
Pick one strategy and stick to it.
Pay off one debt at a time — it feels achievable and helps you stay motivated.
Bonus tip: some local libraries and community centres offer free budgeting or financial planning workshops. They’re worth checking out.
5️⃣ Monitor your progress and adjust as needed
Ask yourself:
✔️ Are balances going down?
✔️ Is your credit score rising?
✔️ Are you staying within your budget?
Like any business, even big companies review and adjust their budget quarterly — you can do the same.
Small adjustments make a big difference over time.
Stay consistent, celebrate small wins, and keep your long-term goal in mind: stepping into your own home.
💡 Final Thought
Debt doesn’t disappear overnight — but with structure, commitment, and the right guidance, it becomes manageable.
If you want help reviewing your debts, improving your credit, or building a mortgage-ready plan, message The Frontline Mortgage Group. We’ll guide you step-by-step toward becoming a homeowner. 💬
